Sinn Féin calling for a Yes vote

Speaking ahead of the referendum this Friday, Ciara McCormack, Tipperary Sinn Féin’s General Election Candidate said the following:

“The referendum on the 8th Amendment has been a trying and, at times, polarizing campaign. Nonetheless, the difficulties and problems pertaining to the 8th needed to be addressed, having been swept under the carpet for too long.”

“Sinn Féin’s position is clear: the 8th Amendment must go. The constitution is no place to legislate for the intricacies of individual medical cases.”

“We need to ensure compassion and care for those dealing with fatal foetal abnormalities, incest or rape; not have them exiled to Liverpool, as is the status quo. We can’t continue dehumanizing these women, excusing the lack of care available by reducing them to “a small percentage” every Irish woman must have the best health care available to them, especially when at their most vulnerable.”

“The coercion of the 8th Amendment doesn’t work, it is harmful to women. Women’s health can no longer be allowed to decline to the point of no return, where a woman must be classified as dying before appropriate medical interventions can be applied to satisfy the 8th. No longer can our women can be forced under court order to undergo invasive medical procedures against their will. Our women must no longer be reduced to “vessels” in pregnancy.”

“Women must have the right to actively participate and have a voice in their medical care.”

“Between 2012 and 2016, at least 403 women from Tipperary travelled to Britain for an abortion.”

“If we vote No and retain the 8th Amendment these problems will remain. Women will continue to travel abroad; abortion pills will still be readily available; abortion still dangerously non-regulated.”

“The uncertainties of Brexit will risk a whole section of our society left without compassionate healthcare.”

“We must end the criminalization, shaming and exile of our Women.”

“This is why I’m asking you to show solidarity with the women of Ireland, on May 25th vote Yes.”